2002 Mercury Cougar Sputtering when stopped

KROSIER13

MEMBER
2002 MERCURY COUGAR
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
53,000 MILES

Car sputters while stopped and occasionally while driving (typically at low rpms). Sputtering subsides a little when gas tank is completely full. I've had to replace the transmission and alternator in the past, so I don't think that's the problem. Any help you can provide will be greatly appreciated!

4 Replies

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

Fuel filter/ fuel injectors may be clogged or your fuel pump may be going out.

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Thursday, November 27th, 2008 AT 8:19 PM

KROSIER13

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you bluelightnin6 for responding to my question! I took your advice and replaced the fuel filter and ran fuel injector cleaner, and problem is still persisting. I'll try changing the fuel pump next. My friend suggested that I might have water/condensation in my tank, and to pour some alcohol in my tank to get the water to dissolve. Does this sound right?

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Friday, November 28th, 2008 AT 7:57 AM

KROSIER13

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yikes! Now the check engine light is on. I think it's time to take it to the dealership. What a P.O.S. Car. This car is waaaaay more trouble than it's worth. The car has low mileage for it's age, and it's just been one problem after another! To anyone out there thinking of buying a Mercury Cougar, DO NOT buy one!

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Friday, November 28th, 2008 AT 10:09 AM

BLUELIGHTNIN6

MECHANIC
16,542 POSTS

I own a 2000 Mercury Cougar and I have no major issues with my vehicle. Has 125k miles and have owned it for 2 years now.

Just get the check engine codes from a local auto part store like AutoZone or O'Reilly Auto Parts. They will do this for free.

You don't need to panic just because the light is on. It could be as simple as a $5 sensor causing the light.

The newer model Cougars do have poor fuel pumps and some models even had a recall on them depending on vehicles VIN number. You should ask your dealer about this to see if your vehicle is included.

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Friday, November 28th, 2008 AT 10:25 AM